Introduction

Women in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur on Friday launched a relentless attack on the home of a prime suspect in a nefarious sexual harassment case that has rocked the country.

The Incident

Police said the defendants allegedly dragged two tribal women onto the streets back in May, provoking a horrific mob to rape and parading the victims naked, further exacerbating the ethnic clashes sweeping the state.

Nationwide Attention

Although the sexual assault happened over two months ago, it recently gained nationwide attention when a short video of the horrific incident surfaced on social media earlier this week.

Prime Minister’s Response

The shocking footage showing the heinous attack prompted an immediate reaction from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who unequivocally condemned the heinous crime as “shameful” and vowed to crack down.

Arrests Made

Following Modi’s conviction on Thursday, the main suspect, a resident of the violence-stricken state of Manipur, was quickly apprehended. Three others have also been arrested, while police continue their pursuit of at least 30 more people involved in the heinous crime.

Outrage and Protests

In a wave of rage and demands for justice, local women began to throw stones and set fire to parts of the suspect’s house in the village, reflecting the deep anxiety and intense anger that prevails in society. The police, realizing the scale of the outrage, urged women to express their protest in a peaceful way.

Inter-Ethnic Clashes

The sexual harassment case is a disturbing chapter in the ongoing inter-ethnic clashes that have begun in Manipur. The contention was caused by a court ruling extending the special benefits enjoyed by the Kuki tribes to the majority of the Meitei population. The clashes have claimed at least 125 lives and more than 40,000 people have been forced to flee their homes following the outbreak of violence.

Demand for Justice

Human rights groups across India have mobilized to demand justice for the victims and a speedy investigation into the heartbreaking incident that raises important questions about the safety of women in the country.

Protests and Parliamentary Action

Protests have taken place in various parts of the country, sparked by a passionate desire for responsibility and a call to protect the dignity and well-being of women. As disturbing videos of the attack circulated, opposition MPs sent notices to both houses of parliament demanding a full discussion of the violence in Manipur. They demand that the Prime Minister issue a detailed statement on a serious issue that has gripped the consciousness of the nation.